03 January 2023 , 07:25
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Buffalo Bills have confirmed star Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest during the side's NFL clash against Cincinnati Bengals.
The match was suspended after Hamlin, 24, collapsed on the field before receiving urgent medical attention, initially from players of both teams, then by doctors and medics pitchside.
Hamlin is now in critical condition in hospital as well-wishes flood in from both the NFL and the wider sporting world.
The Bills tweeted: "Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest following a hit in our game versus the Bengals. His heartbeat was restored on the field and he was transferred to the UC Medical Center for further testing and treatment. He is currently sedated and listed in critical condition."
Hamlin collided with an opposition player, seeming to take a helmet to his chest, before collapsing having initially regained his footing.
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Players from both sides gathered around Hamlin with some visibly distressed in tears, while others knelt to pray for their stricken colleague.
TV coverage broke away from the incident while the crowd in Cincinnati watched on in a near silence.
After both coaches consulted with one another, players were led from the field and the match was eventually suspended.
In an earlier statement, the NFL said: "Hamlin received immediate medical attention on the field by team and independent medical staff and local paramedics. He was then transported to a local hospital where he is in a critical condition.
Some players were visibly distressed as Hamlin received treatment (Getty Images)"Our thoughts are with Damar and the Buffalo Bills. We will provide more information as it becomes available. The NFL has been in constant communication with the NFL Players Association which is in agreement with postponing the game."
As reported by ESPN, Hamlin's family were in attendance in Cincinnati and travelled with him in the ambulance to the nearby hospital.
Hamlin's agent Rooney added on Twitter : "His vitals are back to normal and they have put him to sleep to put a breathing tube down his throat. They are currently running tests. We will provide updates as we have them."
Hamlin, from Pennsylvania, is competing in his second NFL season after joining the Bills two years ago. He played five seasons of college football for Pittsburgh before becoming the 212th overall pick of the 2021 NFL draft and signing a four-year rookie contract.